Nominations are now open for the 2026 Mike Russell Trucking Industry Image Award, recognizing individuals and organizations that promote a positive image of the trucking industry through professionalism, safety, and public engagement.
The award is presented by the American Trucking Associations and is open to individuals, motor carriers, trucking organizations, and industry suppliers.
What the award recognizes
According to the ATA, the award celebrates companies, organizations, and individuals who generate awareness of the trucking industry while demonstrating professionalism and a safety-first approach to conducting business.
“The trucking industry touches every part of our lives—moving the goods our communities rely on and creating millions of good-paying jobs across the country,” said Nikki Thomas, ATA vice president of industry affairs. “The Mike Russell Award honors the people and organizations who truly represent the heart of trucking and proudly elevate our industry’s story. These honorees are setting a higher standard, changing perceptions, and inspiring others to share in the pride of what trucking delivers every day. Each year, our judges are excited to review an outstanding slate of nominations and to celebrate these impactful contributions at ATA’s Management Conference & Exhibition in October.”
How nominations are evaluated
Submissions are assessed by an expert, impartial panel of judges.
Evaluations are based on
- Creativity
- Frequency
- Reach
- Impact
- Execution
Key dates
Nominations must be submitted to the ATA Industry Affairs Department no later than July 31, 2026.
Winners will be announced during the ATA Management Conference and Exhibition scheduled for October 17 through October 20 in Charlotte, North Carolina.
“The Mike Russell Trucking Industry Image Award celebrates leaders who shine a light on the real impact trucking has on our daily lives,” said Dan Horvath, ATA COO. “These luminaries motivate us to keep educating the public about the dedication, innovation, and leadership that move our nation forward. We also thank Great West Casualty Company for sponsoring this award for the 19th year. This recognition reminds us of the tremendous progress we’ve made in telling trucking’s story, while also underscoring how much more there is to do.”
Background and sponsorship
The award was established in 2007 and is named after Mike Russell, a trucking industry supporter and former ATA vice president of public affairs.
Great West Casualty Company is continuing its sponsorship of the award for 2026.
Previous recipients
In 2025, the ATA recognized the Trucking Association of New York and Antoine Sadler, a professional truck driver for Walmart Transportation.
How to submit
Visit the official nomination page through the American Trucking Associations to learn more about the award and how to submit a nomination.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Who can be nominated for the award?
Individuals, motor carriers, trucking organizations, and industry suppliers are eligible.
Q: What does the award recognize?
It recognizes efforts to promote a positive image of the trucking industry through safety and professionalism.
Q: How are nominations judged?
Submissions are evaluated based on creativity, frequency, reach, impact, and execution.
Q: When is the nomination deadline?
Nominations must be submitted by July 31, 2026.
Q: When will winners be announced?
Winners will be announced in October 2026 at the ATA Management Conference and Exhibition.
Nominations for the 2026 Mike Russell Trucking Industry Image Award are open through July 31.
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Source: The Trucker
